UF looking to build baseball stadium

The University Athletic Association has posted an ad for an architect and design team for a new 5,500-seat baseball stadium that would be scheduled to be ready for the 2020 season at a cost of $45,878,800.

The ad does not specify a site for the new stadium.

“We are looking at several options related to our athletic facilities master plan and are not prepared to discuss any further details at this time,” said UAA spokesman Steve McClain.

The proposal includes plans for coaches’ offices, a shaded canopy area, premium club seats and berm seating. It would also include a weight room (the players currently lift in the football stadium) and a 360-degree concourse.

Construction would begin in late August of next year and take 40 weeks to complete.

UF’s original plan was to renovate McKethan Stadium to the tune of $30 million as part of a $100 million facilities improvement program.

A canopy will help for all three-five early afternoon games the Gators play every season, but it also will be good if the new stadium provides for good general admission crowds. The best way to build attendance for Sully’s great teams is for the part time fans- especially families with kids- to realize how nice it is to spend an evening at the ballpark watching high quality baseball. Part time fans are the ones most likely to become season ticket holders and Gator season tix are a major bargain.

Friday night games, especially against Miami and SEC opponents, often are standing room only. SRO just doesn’t attract families, no matter how exciting the games are. Outfield bleachers are cheap to build and maintain and, given that most home games are night games, they’re more fun and affordable that a family trip to the movies. The new park- done right- is a chance to create a Gator community experience.